What a Topographic Survey Provides

A topographic survey (also called a topo survey or topographical survey) measures ground elevations and captures site features — structures, fences, walls, driveways, trees, drainage, and other visible improvements — to create a topographic map and 3D surface for design, grading, drainage, and permitting.

Common Scopes — Choose What Fits Your Project

Topo Only (Base Map):

Existing site conditions for planning and design.

Topo + Boundary Base Map (Most Common):

Topographic data combined with boundary establishment — ideal for ADUs, additions, new construction, and architectural design when setbacks and property lines matter.

Topo + Boundary + As-Built (When Needed):

For remodels, additions, or permit submittals requiring full existing-conditions documentation.

When You Need a Topographic Survey

• Architectural design for an ADU, addition, or new home
• Grading or drainage plans for civil engineers
• Permit submittals requiring a design base map
• Hillside and slope-sensitive planning
• Site feasibility studies and due diligence
• Before engaging an architect or civil engineer on a new project

What's Included

• Ground elevations and contours (typically 1-foot intervals; project-dependent)
• Visible site features: structures, fences, walls, driveways, hardscape, drainage features
• Boundary lines and corners when combined scope is included
• CAD-ready base map deliverable for design coordination
• Stamped and signed PDF when required for permit submittals

Common Add-Ons

• Boundary Survey / Corner Location (almost always recommended — scope as combined topo + boundary)
• As-Built Survey (for remodels requiring existing improvement documentation)
• Slope Analysis Map (for hillside lots and grading feasibility)
• Drone / UAV Aerial Capture (for larger parcels or difficult terrain)

What We Need From You to Start

• Property address (and APN if available)
• What the topo is for: ADU/addition, grading plan, drainage, new construction, permit submittal, etc.
• Area to be surveyed: entire parcel, portion, or specific area
• Required deliverable format: PDF, CAD (DWG/DXF), contour interval, spot elevations
• Any available plans (site plan, architectural set — helpful but not required)
• Access details: occupancy, gate/lock, restricted areas, tenant coordination
• Deadline or permit submittal date

Our Process

1. Scope confirmation — We confirm survey limits, contour interval, deliverable format, and whether boundary is included.
2. Records research — We review applicable parcel records and any prior survey information.
3. Field work — Our crew collects ground elevations, site features, and boundary evidence using integrated methods.
4. Data processing — We process field data into a 3D surface, contours, and planimetric features.
5. Mapping & delivery — We compile the base map, quality-check results, and deliver in your required format.

Deliverables

• Topographic map with contours and spot elevations (PDF, stamped/signed when required)
• CAD file (DWG/DXF) with 3D surface, contours, and planimetric features
• Boundary lines and corners when combined scope is requested
• Slope analysis layer when included in scope

Why Builoff for Topographic Surveys

• Licensed California PLS (PLS 8099) overseeing all work
• Combined topo + boundary in one mobilization — avoids duplicate site visits and saves cost
• Modern equipment: RTK GNSS, robotic total stations, 3D laser scanning, UAV for larger sites
• Familiar with LA and Ventura County permitting and CAD standards for design teams
• Fast turnaround: field-to-finish automation workflow accelerates map production
• CAD deliverables ready for Civil 3D, AutoCAD, and most architectural platforms